James R. Ash

Dad was the son of Harold Herman and Dortha Marie Ash. He graduated from West Lafayette High School and shortly thereafter joined the Air Force during the Korean Conflict and worked on F-86 aircraft in South Korea. He was so proud to have served his country.

After the military, Dad returned to Indiana and briefly attended DePauw University. He continued his studies and graduated from Purdue University, where he met his beautiful bride Marianne Schlatter of Leo, Indiana. They were married August 19, 1956 and had celebrated 66 years of marriage. They went on to have us kids, Randall Lee Ash, Laurie Ann Ash Metzger, and Deanna (DeeDee) Ash Siple. He will also be leaving behind our spouses who were just as much his kids and meant the world to him. Shari Stribling Ash, Joseph Patrick Metzger, and Thomas Lynn Siple, you all have been so gracious and helpful to our Dad, and mom, we thank you!

Dad’s grandchildren made him so prideful and gave him years of joy attending their school events, birthday’s holidays, and coming of age milestone gathering. All of his grandkids have gone on to have their own families giving dad a few years to enjoy watching the great grandchildren grow. TJ and Jessica Siple are the parents of Evie and Linc. Dana (Siple) and Luke Snyder are the parents of Rae and Canaan. David and Teri Siple are the parents of Ellie and Calvin. Tori (Ash) and Eric Franklin are the parents of Asher and Hunter. Gwen (Ash) and Daniel Lane will be the parents of Amelia.

Dad retired from Purdue University after years as an Environmental Health Officer. He enjoyed his retirement years with Mom doing all those things he loved: fishing, woodworking, model trains and mostly just being retired. Dad had a great life and together we all had great adventures and many learning experiences (he taught us all so much). The memories we share are endless.

Our families would also like to thank and send our appreciated to Intrepid Hospice, Life’s Journey, and the wonderful caretaker Rosie Bell with Visiting Angels.

Thanks Dad! You will be missed by us all! We love you!

Memorial contributions can be made to American Cancer Society, The Alzheimer’s Association or the Heritage Lake POA (memo line: College Scholarship Fund) mail to Heritage Lake POA, 100 Clubhouse Coatesville, Indiana 46121.